World Cup 2014: Stay happy and healthy

If you’re lucky enough to be heading to Brazil this summer then your head will be buzzing with samba, football and the Copa Cabana. But have you had your Yellow Fever vaccination? I am not trying to scare you, but Yellow Fever would absolutely ruin your trip.One of the problems with Yellow Fever is that the diagnosis is difficult to make in its early stages. It’s called Yellow Fever because it can cause your skin to turn yellow… but you often can’t spot it at the initial stages. The infection is spread by a simple mosquito bite, so it’s vital that you take the necessary precautions before you fly off for fun in the sun.Other symptoms include bleeding in various parts of the body, liver, kidney and respiratory systems failure and in some cases Yellow Fever can be fatal. There is no specific treatment for Yellow Fever – vaccination is key. Stay smart this summer.Dengue Fever is another common infection in Brazil spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms of Dengue include; high fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, bone, muscle and joint pain.There is currently no vaccine for Dengue Fever so the best way to prevent catching the infection is to use your common sense: wear protective clothing and use plenty of mosquito repellent throughout the day and night.This summer is all about sport, sunshine and making memories to last a lifetime. Don’t risk ruining it when many dangerous illnesses are so easily prevented.Ralph’s Travel Tips:

Take a good supply of any regular medicines

Carry a first aid kit

Don’t forget the sun cream

Insect repellent is a MUST

Anti-diarrhoea tablets can be a life-saver

Follow food and water hygiene precautions

Rabies can be a fatal illness. Be careful of animals, even domestic ones